Mana Pools National Park

In the heart of the Zambezi Valley along the Southern banks of the Zambezi River, Mana Pools National Park offers approximately 2000km² of untouched wilderness which is mostly inaccessible unless on foot. It was the first National Park in Zimbabwe to be designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1984.

The name “Mana” is the Shona word for the number four, highlighting the four main pools of this area (Main, Chine, Long and Chisambuk). These pools (amongst many other smaller ones) and their islands are the essential draw cards for hippo, elephant, buffalo, crocodiles and many other species , resulting in an area with an incredibly high density of wildlife.

The Ana tree’s which characterize the floodplain, shed their protein-rich seed pods during the dry season, and in doing so provide vital sustenance for many species, especially elephant.

The generally sparse undergrowth of the area has contributed to Mana Pools becoming a world famous destination best known for its walking safaris. It is here that the visitor is able to enjoy authentic up-close-and-personal experiences which are found nowhere else on earth.

The waterways provide yet another unique aspect to the area, through canoe safaris that once again, bring the visitor closer to the heartbeat of the African wildlife.

Mobile camps are another distinctive asset for Mana Pools allowing visitors to move around the park to experience various facets of this exceptional area.

Mana Pools National Park is a remote destination offering a variety of spectacular views; the Zambezi River and its floodplains, riverine woodland, mountains of the Rift Valley escarpment and the tree canopy, depending on where you happen to stay.